The State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development, Peace Mutuuzo, has called for renewed efforts to strengthen access to justice for women and girls as Uganda marked International Women’s Day on March 8, 2026.
Speaking during national celebrations held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Mutuuzo emphasised that this year’s theme, “Scaling Up Justice for Social, Economic and Cultural Development,” seeks to address persistent challenges affecting women and girls across the country.
She noted that while Uganda has made steady progress in promoting gender equality, many women particularly widows and vulnerable girls continue to face barriers in accessing justice and fully participating in social and economic life.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” Mutuuzo said, underscoring the need to fast-track cases involving gender-based violence (GBV).
She revealed that gender-based violence-related cases account for 32 percent of the country’s case backlog, including defilement, assault, and other forms of abuse.
The minister stressed that improving access to justice is central to protecting women’s rights and advancing national development.
“On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every woman and girl can access justice without delay,” she said.
Mutuuzo also highlighted significant strides made in women’s empowerment. She noted that women today are increasingly participating in the economy, education, politics, and the health sector.
Government initiatives, including continued support to women’s Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), have strengthened their financial independence and entrepreneurial capacity.
She called on stakeholders including the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and community leaders to work collaboratively to eliminate barriers that hinder women from seeking justice.
While Uganda joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Women’s Day, the minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating a society where women and girls can live free from violence and fully contribute to the country’s social, economic, and cultural transformation.